Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. Finely painted in gold, egg tempera, and gesso on wood, this icon depicts a scene called "Our Lady of Unexpected Joy," in which a sinner kneels before an image of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Christ. While pondering a malevolent action, the image of the Mother of God was brought to life, and the hands of Jesus began to bleed. The sinner, upon inquiring about why the infant's hands bled, was given 2 explanations by the Virgin Mother: that sinners like himself acting upon their evil ways caused her son's repeated crucifixion; and that the joy of Heaven was far greater for one repentant sinner than for that of 99 virtuous individuals. Not only did these answers absolve him of his past misdeeds, but the sudden bliss overtook him with emotion and a personal vow of piety. Size: 10.3" W x 12.3" H (26.2 cm x 31.2 cm)

According to the Orthodox Church of America website, "The sinful youth, who was nevertheless devoted to the Theotokos, was praying one day before the icon of the All-Pure Virgin before going out to commit a sin. Suddenly, he saw that wounds appeared on the Lord's hands, feet, and side, and blood flowed from them. In horror he exclaimed, 'O Lady, who has done this?' The Mother of God replied, 'You and other sinners, because of your sins, crucify My Son anew.' Only then did he realize how great was the depth of his sinfulness. For a long time he prayed with tears to the All-Pure Mother of God and the Savior for mercy. Finally, he received the unexpected joy of the forgiveness of his sins." The "Unexpected Joy" icon is commemorated on January 25 and May 1.

This icon most likely was kept in someone's home. According to Jeanne Marie Warzeski, scholar and curator of the North Carolina Museum of History's "Windows into Heaven" exhibition, "In the early Byzantine Empire, the home became the primary base for the development of icon veneration. Throughout the ensuing centuries, icons continued to receive honor in homes and churches. To this day, many Orthodox Christians create for prayer and meditation in their home a krasny ugol, or "beautiful corner," where family icons are placed. Guests entering a house customarily honor the icons in the corner by crossing themselves before the objects. An oil lamp is set near the icons and is lit daily, according to Orthodox tradition."

Icons (icon means "image" in Greek) are sacred objects within the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Found in homes as well as churches, these painted images depict holy persons and saints as well as illustrate scenes from the Scriptures. Icons are not worshipped, but are instead venerated for their ability to focus the power of an individual's prayer to God. As a focus for prayers and meditation for believers, icons serve as "windows into heaven."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#169037

Vertical break line down center with some restoration and repainting. Losses to gesso and tempera near break line, on peripheries, and in upper right corner. Some expected nicks, chips, abrasions, and scratches throughout. Otherwise, very nice with great pigments. Back slats visible on verso.